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Ship Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$171K - $192K/yr

... and ship repair industries. Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore ... The Chief Engineer leads the engineering department, supervises maintenance activities, manages ...

Chief Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · Remote

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Chief Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for engineering and systems activities ... ships, aircraft (manned and unmanned), and supporting systems in accordance with mission ...

Chief Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Chief Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for engineering and systems activities ... ships, aircraft (manned and unmanned), and supporting systems in accordance with mission ...

CHIEF ENGINEER

Oakland, CA · On-site

$433.44 - $725.64/day

Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main ... Chief Engineer * Caterpillar and Voith experience Minimum Experience : * Experience as an Engineer ...

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195 - $230/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for leadership of technical and engineering aspects ... engineering, shipboard operations, offshore operations, or maritime platform integration

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195K - $230K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for leadership of technical and engineering aspects ... engineering, shipboard operations, offshore operations, or maritime platform integration

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195K - $230K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for leadership of technical and engineering aspects ... engineering, shipboard operations, offshore operations, or maritime platform integration

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195K - $230K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for leadership of technical and engineering aspects ... engineering, shipboard operations, offshore operations, or maritime platform integration

Perform routine shipboard maintenance in port, including preservation, de-scaling, painting ... or Chief Engineer. Experience must include demonstrated ability to maintain engineering logs ...

New

Chief Engineer

Unalaska, AK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

The Chief Engineer is responsible for maintaining all onboard machinery, ensuring safe and ... Requirements · Experience maintaining shipboard machinery to ensure safe operations. · USCG ...

Chief Engineer

Unalaska, AK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

The Chief Engineer is responsible for maintaining all onboard machinery, ensuring safe and ... Requirements • Experience maintaining shipboard machinery to ensure safe operations. • USCG ...

Program Chief Engineer

Odenton, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Active DoD Secret Clearance, which requires ship. * Experience transitioning development programs ... Chief Engineer or IPT/CAM on a program or Control account with >$10M/yr of engineering content ...

New

Chief Engineer (OSV)

LA · On-site

  • Retirement

May be concerned with only one phase of duties, such as maintenance of the ship's gear and decks or ... Chief Engineers are to ensure full handover is completed with the oncoming Chief Engineer and ...

Showing results 21-40

Ship Chief Engineer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do ship chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship chief engineer in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ship chief engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Chief Engineer, you need a deep understanding of marine engineering, mechanical systems, and regulatory compliance, supported by a degree in marine engineering and a Chief Engineer's license (STCW certification). Proficiency with shipboard machinery, maintenance management systems, and diagnostic tools is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating engine room teams and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe, efficient operation of the vessel, compliance with maritime regulations, and the wellbeing of crew and cargo.

What are some common challenges faced by a ship chief engineer, and how can they be addressed?

As a Ship Chief Engineer, you'll often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse engineering team, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations, and maintaining complex machinery under tight schedules. To address these, it's important to foster clear communication within your team, stay updated on regulatory changes, and implement regular preventive maintenance routines. Developing strong problem-solving skills and adaptability also helps in handling unexpected technical issues during voyages.

What is the difference between Ship Chief Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectShip Chief EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsSTCW Chief Engineer Certification, Marine Engineering DegreeSTCW Marine Engineer Certification, Marine Engineering Degree
Work EnvironmentEngine room, ship's technical managementEngine room, ship's technical operations
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, cruise lines, offshore vesselsShipping companies, offshore industry, naval vessels
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Ship Chief Engineer is responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of the ship's engine room, overseeing the engineering team. The Marine Engineer typically refers to the same role but may also denote engineers with specialized technical skills or different certification levels. While both roles work in similar environments and require comparable credentials, the Chief Engineer holds a leadership position overseeing the entire engineering department.

What is a ship chief engineer?

Ship Chief Engineers are the senior-most engineers on a vessel, responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of all mechanical and electrical systems on board. They manage the engineering department, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and supervise the engine room crew. Chief Engineers are vital for the safe and efficient running of a ship, often collaborating closely with the Captain and other officers. Their duties include troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining equipment, and ensuring that all machinery runs smoothly during voyages.
More about Ship Chief Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Ship Chief Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Ship Chief Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Ship Chief Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Ship Chief Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Ship Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer Unlimited

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Seattle, WA • On-site

$171K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description:

Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned company with a proud legacy spanning over 50 years and two generations. We provide a comprehensive range of innovative solutions and support services to clients in the offshore scientific research, subsea, defense, and ship repair industries. Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable energy sectors, delivering reliable and specialized maritime services. Stabbert is currently looking for a Chief Engineer to join our fleet.

Position Summary:

The Chief Engineer leads the engineering department, supervises maintenance activities, manages technical resources, and supports the safe and reliable operations of the vessel. This role requires extensive technical expertise, leadership skills and a thorough understanding of marine engineering regulations and safety protocols.

Essential Functions:

  • Responsible for the safe operation of all machinery, electrical, and technical areas of the vessel.
  • Manage and direct the engineering department.
  • Ensure vessel’s engineering department adheres to all safety and flag requirements.
  • Plan and prioritize work for the engineering department with the highest regard for safety.
  • Manage daily maintenance of engineering systems.
  • Ensure that main engines and associated machinery including electrical, refrigeration, air conditioning units on board the ship are operating efficiently.
  • Implement and maintain preventative maintenance schedule.
  • Maintain engine room stores and record usage of parts and equipment.
  • Keep detailed engine room logs.
  • Responsible for all engineering aspects of the SMS.
Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to analyze problems via communication while a vessel is at sea or in a remote location.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills; capable of maintaining strong relationships both with the team and customers.
  • Time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Must be well-organized, detail and customer-oriented (internal and external), self-starter, self-motivated, prioritize duties, and follow through with tasks to completion as necessary.
  • Working knowledge in MS Office and Adobe DC.

Education and/or Requirements:

  • License Requirements – USCG Chief Engineer Unlimited
  • Valid STCW certifications
  • Must have a US Passport
  • Minimum five (5) years experience as Chief Engineer
  • Working knowledge of DP systems
  • Working knowledge of Maintenance Systems
  • Experience with diesel electric system
  • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems
  • Basic knowledge of electrical, refrigeration, air conditioning, and hydraulic system
  • Results-oriented, self-starter with a high level of initiative
  • Strong ability to organize and communicate with others
  • Strong work ethics, values, and principles with safety the first priority

Position Content

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, and working conditions associated with the positions. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, these requirements may change over time. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary.


Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned and operated maritime company. We take pride in our vessels, teams, and the ability to think outside the box to solve our customers' needs. If you are looking to be part of a dynamic team with a company that focuses on its people and understands the importance of quality and work-life balance, please send your resume.